innovation
Reports on innovation See all →
Opinion: Cryptocurrencies – fears and opportunities
After a few years of hype, experts are now tamping down expectations for cryptocurrencies. Indeed, several concerns about security and regulation need to be addressed. But cryptocurrencies – and the blockchain technology they are based on – also offer tremendous room for innovation and efficiency. By competing with traditional fiat currency, they could help profligate governments and central banks become more disciplined
The dawn of a new age in Japan
Japan tends to develop in leaps and bounds – and it looks ready to make another such surge. The transformation of life sciences, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, robotics and big data will lead to a new age in the country. It has the political will and fewer of the ...
Opinion: The benefits of genetically modified organisms
So-called “genetically modified organisms,” or GMOs, are frequently the subject of controversy, mostly because they are misunderstood. Humans have been genetically modifying plants and animals for millennia. Now, new gene-editing methods hold the potential to cure horrible diseases and make food more nutritious, potentially improving millions of lives. Regulation is ...
Blockchain and its potential for economic disruption
Blockchain – a decentralized ledger of transactions that uses computer technology to link, secure and encrypt records – has the potential to become a hugely disruptive technology, rendering financial intermediaries unnecessary and making money transfers nearly instantaneous. However, it requires huge amounts of computing power and still cannot come close ...
Opinion: Defense is essential
Every state above a certain size needs armed forces to defend itself. Methods for their use vary, ranging from the Swiss model of territorial defense to the blue-water navies, foreign alliances and overseas bases deployed by superpowers. The one common element – essential to any sort of effective deterrence – ...
